In Illinois, Chinese investors own only about one square mile of land, while Portuguese, Italian, and Canadian interests hold over 760 square miles combined.
Chicago's strategy to boost international tourism through partnerships, like Brazilian influencer Lucas Estevam, aims to attract diverse audiences with tailored experiences.
From MedellΓn to Chicago, digital nomads are on the rise, contributing significantly to the global economy. But locals worry these visitors are pricing them out.
"The future of mankind will be dominated by 20 to 25 super-regions, with Chicago prominent among them," says Michael Fassnacht, who exits the economic development agency this month.
Chicago's transit system may need to make cuts and raise fares after COVID relief funds phase out, but riders won't likely see a systemic collapse like Venezuelan commuters experienced in the 2010s.